Definition

Causes

Uterine rupture occurs more often in women who have had prior surgery on their uterus. This may include previous
cesarean section
or other procedures, such as
fibroid removal.

Risk Factors

Factors that may your chance of developing uterine rupture include:

Prior rupture

Abnormal uterine structure

Previous uterine surgery, including cesarean section

Use of labor-inducing drugs

Delivering post-term

Currently having an enlarged uterus, such as carrying more than one baby or having too much amniotic fluid

Symptoms

In many cases, uterine rupture does not have symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

Sudden abdominal pain

Vaginal bleeding

Slowing or stopping of
contractions

Diagnosis

Your doctor will monitor you and your baby during labor. Problems with the baby's heart rate can be a sign of uterine rupture.
If
there are signs or symptoms of uterine rupture, the doctor will urgently deliver the baby, usually by cesarian section.

Diagnosis is confirmed during surgery.

Treatment

If your baby is experiencing fetal distress, the
doctor will urgently
initiate delivery. It will likely be done by cesarean section. If the baby is not delivered as quickly as possible, it could suffer permanent brain damage, problems due to lack of oxygen, or death.
The uterine rupture is surgically repaired after delivery.

Prevention

If you have one or more risk factors for uterine rupture, develop a thorough birth and complication plan with your doctor.

In many cases, women who delivered a previous baby via cesarean section can attempt a
vaginal delivery
(VBAC). If you decide to deliver vaginally after a cesarean, your baby will need constant
fetal monitoring
. You should only deliver the baby in a facility where emergency surgery is available. Talk with your doctor about the best delivery plan for you.

RESOURCES

American Pregnancy Association
http://americanpregnancy.org

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
http://www.acog.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES

Canadian Women's Health Network
http://www.cwhn.ca

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada
https://sogc.org

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.